Dazu Rock Carvings

Introducing Dazu Rock Carvings

The Dazu Rock Carvings are a collective term for the grotto art, primarily cliff carvings, found in Dazu County, Chongqing. They encompass five locations: Baoding Mountain, Beishan Mountain, Nanshan Mountain, Shizhuan Mountain, and Shimen Mountain. Most people referring to the Dazu Rock Carvings refer to the Baoding Mountain carvings.

The Dazu Rock Carvings are large in scale, exquisite in carving, rich in content, with distinct national characteristics, and of high historical, scientific and artistic value. They occupy a pivotal position in the history of ancient Chinese grotto art and are hailed as the magical pearl of oriental art at home and abroad.

There are two theories about the origin of the name of the Dazu Rock Carvings. One is that Dazu is a traditional agricultural area with a mild climate, favorable weather, stable harvests, and a people who live and work in peace and contentment. It is a land of abundance, hence the name. Another theory is related to Buddhist legend. According to legend, Sakyamuni visited Dazu on the eve of his nirvana and left a pair of large feet where he preached, hence the name Dazu.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 4-5 hours

Tickets

Low season ( December 1st - February 28th/29th of the following year )

Baoding Mountain Stone Carving Ticket: RMB 90

Shengshou Temple Ticket: RMB 20

Baoding Mountain Stone Carvings and Shengshou Temple combined ticket: RMB 100

Baoding Mountain and Beishan Stone Carvings Combined Ticket: RMB 120

Baoding Mountain, Beishan Stone Carvings, and Shengshou Temple combined ticket: RMB 130

Beishan Rock Carvings Ticket: RMB 70

Peak season ( March 1st - November 30th )​

Baoding Mountain Stone Carving Ticket: RMB 120

Shengshou Temple Ticket: RMB 20

Baoding Mountain Stone Carvings and Shengshou Temple (Guangda Temple) combined ticket: RMB 130

Baoding Mountain and Beishan Stone Carvings Combined Ticket: RMB 170

Baoding Mountain, Beishan Stone Carvings, and Shengshou Temple (Guangda Temple) combined ticket: RMB 180

Beishan Rock Carvings Ticket: RMB 90

Attraction opening hours

8:30-18:00 ( Ticket sales stop at 16:30 )

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Most Popular FAQs for Dazu Rock Carvings

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Dazu Rock Carvings date back to the 9th–13th centuries and are renowned for their aesthetic quality, historical value, and religious significance. They depict Buddhist, Confucian, and Taoist themes, reflecting the spiritual culture of ancient China and earning UNESCO World Heritage status in 1999.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in Dazu District, Chongqing, approximately 165 km from Chongqing city center. Visitors can take a bus or taxi from Chongqing downtown, or drive. There is no direct metro line; organized tours often provide transportation.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is in spring or autumn for comfortable weather and clear views, avoiding summer crowds and winter chills.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Tickets cost around 90–120 RMB per person depending on the site cluster. Tickets can be purchased onsite or online through official platforms or travel apps.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking is recommended during peak tourist seasons (holidays, weekends) at least a few days in advance. Otherwise, tickets are usually available on arrival.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan 3–5 hours to see major carvings in the Baodingshan and Beishan clusters. A full-day visit allows a more relaxed pace and time for photography and walking between sites.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Baodingshan Rock Carvings – famous for thousands of figures and the “Hundred-Handed Guanyin”.
• Beishan Cluster – known for its elaborate Buddhist and Taoist sculptures.
• Northern Cave and Nanshan carvings – smaller but historically significant sites.
• Local museums and interpretation centers explaining the carvings’ history and symbolism.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, mainly in Chinese, with some English-speaking private guides. Audio guides may be offered at key sites, often in Chinese and English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Cliff faces of Baodingshan and Beishan, capturing full reliefs.
• Pathways leading to scenic terraces with carvings in the background.
• Wide shots from higher vantage points showing the integration of carvings and natural landscape.
• Sunrise or late afternoon light for dramatic shadows on sculptures.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, visit Baodingshan cluster first, follow the walking paths to Beishan, explore smaller caves, and end at the onsite museum for context and history. Allocate breaks to avoid fatigue.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are generally not available. Special guided tours or cultural programs may be arranged through tour operators.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

It can be busy on weekends and holidays. Weekday mornings are the least crowded, providing a more peaceful experience.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Public restrooms, small restaurants and snack stalls, water points, seating areas along walking paths, and souvenir shops are available near major clusters.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Partially accessible. Some areas have steep stairs and uneven paths, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children should be supervised near cliffs.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted. Cash may be needed for small vendors or local shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local Sichuan cuisine restaurants near the entrance
• Snack stalls offering traditional Chongqing treats
• Small cafes with drinks and light meals within the visitor areas

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available; vegan and halal options may be limited, so plan ahead or inquire at restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Mid-range hotels and guesthouses in Dazu town
• Budget hostels nearby for short stays
• Some boutique lodgings with scenic views close to the carvings

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Local Dazu Ancient Town for cultural exploration
• Other smaller rock carving clusters in the Dazu area
• Surrounding natural landscapes and rivers for photography or hiking

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, offering postcards, miniature carvings, religious artifacts, local handicrafts, and traditional Chongqing snacks.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxi or rideshare services to return to Chongqing city center
• Bus connections to nearby towns or tourist sites
• Organized tour vehicles if continuing to other Dazu attractions or natural sites